Paeds infections

herpesvirus 6; a maculopapular rash appears after the initial high fever with lymphadenopathy.

Chicken pox

Vesicular rash

Scarlet fever

Strep pyogenes causes tonsilitis and pharyngitis

Epiglottitis

Haemophilus influenzae type B infection. It is characterised by sudden onset, high fever, continuous stridor and drooling of secretions. Intravenous antibiotics, anaesthetic support are usually indicated.

Whooping cough

Caused by Bordetella pertussis infection. Bouts of coughing ending in vomiting, especially at night and after feeding suggest the diagnosis. The characteristic whoop, forced inspiration through a closed glottis may or may not be present. Absolute lymphocytosis is common. Complications include CNS haemorrhages, rectal prolapse and bronchiectasis.

Croup

Croup usually occurs in epidemics in autumn or spring. Causative viruses are parainfluenza (types 1,2,or 3), respiratory syncytial viruses and measles virus. Onset is over a few days, stridor is harsh and occurs only when the child is upset. A barking cough, harsh voice and inability to swallow secretions are typical.